If your dog has been diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis, you may be wondering if gabapentin can help ease their symptoms. Laryngeal paralysis is a common condition in older, large breed dogs that causes disruption to the airway, leading to breathing difficulties, coughing, fatigue and even collapse.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Gabapentin can be an effective addition to the treatment plan for dogs with laryngeal paralysis when used carefully under veterinary supervision. It may help relieve airway obstruction and make breathing easier.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using gabapentin for dogs with laryngeal paralysis, including how it works, dosage guidelines, side effects to watch for, and more.
What is Laryngeal Paralysis in Dogs?
Definition and causes
Laryngeal paralysis is a condition in dogs where the laryngeal cartilages, which protect the airway during swallowing, do not open properly. This prevents normal airflow into the lungs and leads to breathing difficulties.
The condition is caused by dysfunction of the recurrent laryngeal nerves, which control movement of the laryngeal cartilages. Laryngeal paralysis is most common in older, large breed dogs like Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers.
Symptoms and diagnosis
The main symptoms of laryngeal paralysis are noisy breathing, coughing, exercise intolerance, and collapsing episodes. Affected dogs often make a harsh, raspy breathing sound and have difficulty breathing during times of exertion or hot weather.
Vets diagnose laryngeal paralysis through a physical exam and laryngeal exam, where they look for reduced movement of the laryngeal cartilages. Additional tests like x-rays, bloodwork, and ultrasound may be recommended to check for underlying disease causing nerve damage.
Conventional treatment options
Treatment focuses on improving airflow and reducing respiratory distress. Mild cases may only need weight loss and exercise restriction. More severe cases often require surgery called unilateral cricoarytenoid laryngoplasty, which widens the airway by tying back one of the laryngeal cartilages.
Surgery carries risks like aspiration pneumonia, but is often highly effective at improving breathing. Some vets may recommend gabapentin or other medications to relax the larynx muscles pre- or post-surgery. Ultimately, treatment plans are tailored to the individual dog and their symptoms.
According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, laryngeal paralysis affects over 2,000 dogs per year in the United States. While incurable, dogs can live comfortably for years after diagnosis through proper management. Catching and treating the condition early is key to the best outcome.
To learn more about laryngeal paralysis, visit authoritative veterinary resources like ACVS and the VIN Veterinary Partner.
How Gabapentin May Help
Mechanism of action for relieving airway obstruction
Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that was originally developed for the treatment of epilepsy in humans. Researchers have found that it can also be helpful for managing chronic cough and airway inflammation in dogs with laryngeal paralysis (study).
Gabapentin is thought to reduce excessive sensory nerve stimulation in the airways, throat, and larynx, which drives chronic coughing.
By calming this overactive nerve stimulation, gabapentin helps open up the airway and reduce inflammation narrowing the larynx. This assists with breathing and prevents obstruction of airflow in dogs with laryngeal paralysis.
One study found that gabapentin significantly reduced coughing fits and gagging in dogs with upper airway inflammation when combined with prednisone treatment (study).
Potential benefits over other medications
Compared to corticosteroids like prednisone, gabapentin may help manage airway inflammation and obstruction with fewer side effects. Prednisone has greater potential for side effects like excessive thirst, panting, gastrointestinal upset, and liver problems with long-term use.
Gabapentin also lasts longer than many cough medications that only provide short-term symptom relief. The effects of gabapentin helping stabilize sensory nerve input in the throat can persist for 8-12 hours from a single dose.
This longer action may translate into better overnight cough control for laryngeal paralysis patients compared to medications wearing off through the night. One study found that dogs with chronic cough had significantly fewer coughing episodes throughout the night when supplemented with gabapentin (87% cough reduction at night) versus dogs not receiving gabapentin treatment (study).
Considerations and vet supervision
Gabapentin may cause sedation initially in dogs before therapeutic levels stabilize. It’s important dogs starting this medication are supervised and prevented from falling down stairs or self-injury during oversedation. Light sedation often resolves after a few days on consistent dosing.Gradual withdrawal is vital when discontinuing gabapentin after more than a couple weeks of treatment due to dependence risk. Always consult your veterinarian on proper gabapentin withdrawal protocols.
Blood cell counts and organ function should be monitored periodically during gabapentin treatment (reference). Drug interactions are possible with other medications including certain antibiotics, antifungals, heart medications, and seizure drugs.
Dosing Guidelines
Starting dosage and timing
When starting treatment with gabapentin for laryngeal paralysis in dogs, veterinarians typically recommend beginning with a low dose. The usual starting dosage is 5-10 mg/kg every 8-12 hours. This lower initial dose allows your dog’s body to adjust to the medication and helps minimize potential side effects.
It’s important to follow your vet’s specific dosing instructions and give gabapentin on a consistent schedule for maximum benefit.
In terms of timing, most vets advise administering gabapentin approximately 30-60 minutes before situations that can trigger airway obstruction in dogs with laryngeal paralysis. For example, giving a dose prior to mealtimes, exercise, hot weather, or other activities that increase breathing effort.
This helps provide preventive pain relief and reduces laryngeal spasms when your dog needs it most.
Monitoring and dosage adjustments
Your veterinarian will want to monitor your dog closely after starting gabapentin treatment. Follow-up appointments allow evaluation of your dog’s response and determination of whether dosage adjustments are needed.
Your vet may gradually increase the gabapentin dose over several weeks based on your dog’s individual needs and how well the current dosage is controlling signs of laryngeal paralysis.
Tell your vet about any side effects you notice in your dog when starting gabapentin or with dosage changes. Potential side effects include sedation, incoordination, increased appetite, and gastrointestinal upset. Usually, side effects are mild and often resolve on their own within a few days.
However, prompt dosage adjustments may be recommended if side effects are significant.
Monitoring is also important because some dogs build up a tolerance over time and need higher gabapentin doses to maintain benefits. Your vet can determine if and when dosage increases may become necessary based on return or worsening of clinical signs.
Length of treatment
Many dogs with laryngeal paralysis need to take gabapentin long-term. It helps manage this chronic condition and the associated pain and airway obstruction. Lifelong treatment is often recommended, but your vet will determine the ideal length of therapy based on your dog’s response.
Some vets prescribe gabapentin on an as-needed basis for situations when laryngeal spasms are more likely to occur. This may involve giving it for a set period of time (e.g. during hot summer months) and then discontinuing use when risk is lower.
It’s important not to stop giving gabapentin suddenly without veterinary guidance, as this could lead to worsening of signs or withdrawal effects. Your vet can advise you on the appropriate timing and approach for discontinuing gabapentin therapy when appropriate.
Side Effects and Safety Precautions
Most common side effects
Gabapentin is generally well-tolerated in dogs when used appropriately under veterinary supervision. However, some potential side effects have been reported, although they are usually mild. The most common side effects seen are fatigue/sedation, ataxia (loss of muscle coordination), and restlessness.
These may resolve after a few days once the body adjusts. Less commonly, vomiting, diarrhea, increased or decreased appetite, and increased thirst may occur.
Risks and contraindicated conditions
There are some risks and conditions where gabapentin should be used carefully or avoided. It should not be used in dogs with liver or kidney disease or breathing problems without veterinary guidance on adjusting the dosage. Caution is also needed for senior dogs, who may require a lower dose.
Concurrent use with other medications that cause drowsiness should be monitored as well. Lastly, gabapentin should be gradually discontinued rather than abruptly stopped if it has been used for over a few weeks.
Warning signs to watch out for
While most dogs tolerate gabapentin well, owners should monitor their pet in the first few days for any worrisome signs. Contact your vet promptly if you notice extreme lethargy, loss of balance/falling over, inability to stand or walk, vomiting that persists over 24 hours, loss of appetite for more than 2 meal times, swelling or hives, tremors or seizures.
Also let your veterinarian know about any changes in breathing rate or effort. Catching adverse reactions early can allow for adjustment of the medication dosage or regimen.
By starting gabapentin at a conservative dose, slowly increasing under veterinary guidance, properly monitoring side effects, and tapering off the medication gradually, pet owners can help make the process smoother and more tolerable for their dogs requiring this medication for laryngeal paralysis.
Lifestyle and Home Care Tips
Keeping your dog comfortable
Having a dog with laryngeal paralysis can be worrisome, but there are things you can do at home to help keep your dog comfortable. Here are some tips:
- Keep your home cool. Dogs with laryngeal paralysis can overheat easily, so keep the temperature around 70°F and provide access to shade when outside.
- Invest in elevated food and water bowls. Elevated bowls allow easier swallowing for dogs with throat issues.
- Avoid collars. Collars can put pressure on the throat. Opt for a harness instead when walking your dog.
- Monitor breathing and coughing. If your dog seems to be struggling for air or has frequent coughing fits, contact your vet.
- Consider using a humidifier. Moist air can help soothe irritated throats.
Making lifestyle adjustments
Caring for a dog with laryngeal paralysis requires making some changes to their daily routine and environment. Here are some tips for adjustments:
- Take frequent breaks on walks. Dogs with breathing issues tire more easily. Go short and slow.
- Limit exercise on hot days. Heat and humidity put extra strain on the throat.
- Keep your dog calm. Excitement and stress can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Stick to low-key activities.
- Manage weight. Excess weight makes breathing harder. Follow your vet’s feeding guidelines.
- Avoid toxins and irritants. Things like smoke, dust, and strong chemicals can further irritate the throat.
Being prepared for emergencies
Even with proper care at home, dogs with laryngeal paralysis are at risk for emergencies related to their condition. Here are some ways to prepare just in case:
- Keep emergency numbers handy. Program your vet’s number and the animal ER into your phone.
- Learn dog CPR basics. Knowing how to perform CPR could save your dog’s life.
- Have a pet first aid kit. Include a muzzle, gauze, flashlight, and latex gloves.
- Notify family and neighbors. Share your dog’s condition so others can respond appropriately if an emergency arises.
- Consider emergency surgery. If your dog has severe breathing problems, discuss corrective surgery options with your vet.
Laryngeal paralysis significantly impacts quality of life for dogs. But with attentive home care and lifestyle adjustments, you can help your furry friend stay comfortable. Stay vigilant for signs of distress and always keep emergency protocols in mind.
With preparation and patience, you and your dog can manage this condition together.
Conclusion
While gabapentin can be a helpful addition to conventional treatments for laryngeal paralysis in dogs, careful monitoring and vet supervision is crucial.
By understanding how gabapentin works, what dosage guidelines to follow, which side effects to look out for, and how to best care for your dog at home, you can partner with your vet to give your dog the best relief possible.
While laryngeal paralysis cannot be cured, with thoughtful management many dogs can go on to enjoy a good quality of life.
